Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra Movie Review: Ambitious start to a promising cinematic universe.

With Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra, director Dominic Arun delivers a fresh and daring entry into the fantasy thriller genre in Malayalam cinema. Led by standout performances from Kalyani Priyadarshan, Naslen, and Sandy Master, the film is a visual treat that successfully lays the groundwork for a much larger cinematic universe.

The story follows Chandra, a mysterious young woman who arrives in Bangalore with a hidden mission, only to find herself entangled with a dangerous organ trafficking network. As the narrative unfolds, Chandra’s true identity and purpose are revealed, with her journey intersecting with three young men who aid her fight against evil. The film smartly blends folklore with a modern-day setting, elevating its story beyond standard genre fare.

The first half is tightly written and engrossing, driven by a gripping screenplay and world-building that sparks curiosity. The second half, while still engaging, experiences a mild slump midway, slowing the pace before picking up again towards the climax. It’s not a deal-breaker but does slightly disrupt the film’s overall rhythm.

Kalyani shines in the lead role, bringing intensity and mystery to Chandra’s character. Naslen adds comic relief without breaking tone, and Sandy Master leaves a strong impact as the antagonist. The cameos by major Mollywood stars were crowd-pleasers, teasing bigger roles in future installments.

Technically, Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra is top-notch. Jakes Bejoy’s background score is the heartbeat of the film, compensating for the absence of songs and amplifying its emotional core. The VFX and cinematography are among the best seen in recent regional cinema, lending the film a grand, immersive feel.

Overall, Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra is a visually rich, well-acted, and boldly imagined fantasy thriller that raises the bar for Malayalam cinema. Despite a brief dip in pace in the second half, the film delivers an exciting theatrical experience and sets up a larger universe with great promise.

Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra Movie Rating: 3.5/5